[XP] Foot pedal works for only certain kinds of voice files, but not others

[aob]

Using windows XP.
I have been using a Sanyo 3-pedal foot pedal, with usb connector, to listen to voice dictations using Express Scribe. I started receiving digital voice dictations using a different playing software and my sanyo pedal would not work. I have to use an Infinity 3-pedal foot pedal, with usb connector, to listen to those non-Express Scribe dictations.
When a voice message comes in to Express Scribe, I have to plug in the Sanyo pedal. When a voice message comes in which is not Express Scribe, I have to unplug the Sanyo and plug in the Infinity pedal.

Why can't one 3-pedal foot pedal enable me to listen to both? Better still, is there a way that I can get either one of these pedals to listen to both types of voice dictations?

[SuperSparks]

It's hard to say for certain, but my guess is that each foot pedal is sending a coded signal, in much the same way as infrared remote controls work. And in much the same way as your TV remote doesn't turn on your DVD recorder, a similar situation is occurring with these foot pedals. The only hope of getting one pedal to work with both types would be to see if the software authors have a solution, I cannot think of any gereric way that you might be able to do anything.

[aob]

SuperSparks:
You are probably right. I was hoping that someone would suggest a "universal" foot pedal. Maybe I will pose the problem to the Express Scribe site and see what happens. Thanks.

[10ECsoon]

Foot pedal...reminds me of the old story about the tech support guy that got a call from an old lady wondering why her foot pedal didn't work - she had her mouse on the floor pushing it with her foot.